It’s well-known that the iPhone is optimized to work seamlessly with the Apple Watch. In contrast, Apple tends to restrict the functionality of smartwatches and accessories from other manufacturers, often citing security concerns as justification. This policy has drawn criticism from lawmakers in the European Union, who have mandated that Apple enhance the compatibility between iPhones and third-party devices in accordance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Recently, the European Commission introduced two resolutions that hold Apple accountable for adhering to the interoperability clause within the DMA. This clause requires Apple to facilitate a more integrated and seamless connection between third-party products and its ecosystem.
The European Commission has identified nine connectivity issues within iOS that Apple needs to address to improve support for various devices, including smartwatches, headphones, and TVs. These updates are expected to grant apps greater access to iPhone data, enhance performance speeds, and simplify the pairing process.
For smartwatches, this means that non-Apple devices will be able to communicate more effectively with iPhones. A key outcome of this would allow these watches to respond to notifications from the iPhone, a feature that is currently restricted by Apple. Additionally, the EU envisions a smoother pairing process for non-Apple smartwatches with the iPhone.
How Apple restricts third-party smartwatches
Pebble, a smartwatch brand that was acquired by Fitbit and subsequently shut down, has made a comeback with new offerings. However, the makers of this new Pebble have highlighted various ways in which Apple limits third-party smartwatches. These limitations include issues with viewing and responding to notifications, sending messages via Apple Messages, and restricting wrist notifications when the iPhone is in use, among other challenges discussed in a blog post.
The EU is expecting Apple to provide technical documentation regarding features, which should ideally help resolve some of the limitations highlighted by Pebble. This directive is legally binding, and the EU expects Apple to outline a timeline for implementing the required changes.
The actual execution of these changes could take anywhere from months to years, as we’ve seen with Apple’s transition from the Lightning port to USB-C. Currently, Apple seems reluctant, labeling this initiative as an effort to “slow down Apple’s ability to innovate for users in Europe and compel us to share our new features without compensation with companies that don’t adhere to the same guidelines,” according to a statement given to The Verge.
